Has your definition of what’s funny changed? Are there some things that are not funny anymore?

My definition of what is funny hasn’t changed. However, in the days after October 7th – and especially when I performed for evacuees – I refrained from jokes that mentioned words that could be triggering, such as “stabbings” or any other violent association.

Do you believe humor can be a form of resilience?

Humor provides mental resilience. I’m sure that if you speak with the hostages who returned, they maintained their sense of humor in captivity, which undoubtedly helped them, just as it surely did during the Holocaust. I’m also convinced that when the survivors of captivity who were released meet one another, humor plays an important role. When I performed for evacuees, including those in the surrounding communities – and even close to the events themselves – I was surprised that they actually came to a stand-up show, and even laughed. That means they needed it.

Is there a piece of work—a joke, a meme—that’s inspired you during this period?

I really love the way Eretz Nehederet handles political and social issues, including its approach to the topic of the hostages.

Check out Sagiv Friedman’s official website.